Your Role
The success of the match friendship depends greatly on the efforts of the Big and the Little, with the support of the Parent and/or Teacher and Agency Staff. Each one plays an important role in helping build a meaningful friendship.
What is a "Big"?
It won't be long before you meet your Little Brother or Little Sister for the first time. And, when you do, it will help for you to understand your role as a Big.
What makes a successful "Big"?
Successful Bigs...
- Emphasize friendship over changing the behavior of the child.
- Are not authoritarian.
- Decide activities together with Littles.
- Are consistent & dependable.
- Have realistic expectations.
- Are patient.
- Focus on having fun.
- Set boundaries and limits.
- Acknowledge that positive impact on the child comes after the relationship is built.
- Put a child's safety and well-being first.
What a "Big" Is Not
- Parent
- Teacher
- Tutor
- Babysitter
- Peer
- Therapist
- ATM